Armchair Expat - a Bargain Homes Abroad Production

Shannon Acton
  • 5.0 (18)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

What really happens when you leave everything familiar behind and start over in a new country?
 Armchair Expat is a podcast about moving abroad, living overseas, and building a life you love on your own terms. Hosted by Shannon Acton of Bargain Homes Abroad, each episode features real stories from people who have relocated internationally—whether for work, retirement, lifestyle, or love. Guests include everyday expats, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs who share honest insights, practical advice, and personal reflections on what it really takes to move abroad and thrive. But this show isn’t just about logistics—it’s about the inner journey, too. From identity shifts and culture shock to healing, intuition, and transformation, Armchair Expat explores how living abroad can change you in ways you never expected. If you’re dreaming of moving to another country or curious about expat life, this podcast will inspire, inform, and guide your journey—no passport required. Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/armchair-expat Contact Us: Info@Bargain-Homes.com

  1. Wherever You Go, There You Are: Lessons from a Life Abroad with Laura Baringer

    12/16/2025

    Wherever You Go, There You Are: Lessons from a Life Abroad with Laura Baringer

    What does it mean to build a life abroad — not just once, but again and again, through different seasons of life? In this episode of Armchair Expat, Shannon sits down with Laura Baringer to explore a deeply thoughtful, non-linear international journey that spans Italy, Guatemala, Nigeria, Rwanda, the UK, and now the Netherlands. Laura shares how growing up between cultures shaped her identity, why moving abroad doesn’t magically solve everything, and how clarity, values, and long-term vision matter far more than picking the “perfect” country. This conversation goes beyond visas and logistics to explore the emotional and practical trade-offs of expat life — rebuilding community, managing dual careers, raising kids internationally, and permitting yourself to evolve along the way. Whether you’re dreaming about a move abroad, already living internationally, or navigating a midlife pivot, this episode offers a grounding perspective and real-world wisdom. In this episode, we discuss: Growing up between cultures and how early international experiences shape identity Why moving abroad won’t fix everything — but can still change everything The hidden trade-offs of expat life: community, career momentum, and distance from family How moving abroad changes when kids enter the picture Why giving yourself at least a year in a new country is essential Choosing a country based on values, not fantasy Designing a long-term life abroad using a “10-year vision” Leaving a 20-year career to build purpose-led work Building a business that supports the life you actually want Why you’re allowed to change — and why that matters abroad Connect with Laura Website: https://purposebuiltbylaura.com ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    57 min
  2. The Expat Tax + Financial Survival Guide with Arielle Tucker

    12/09/2025

    The Expat Tax + Financial Survival Guide with Arielle Tucker

    Thinking about moving abroad — or already living overseas and feeling overwhelmed by taxes, visas, or financial planning? In this episode, Shannon sits down with Arielle Tucker, CFP®, EA, Founding Partner of Connected Financial Planning and host of the Passport to Wealth™ podcast, for a deeply insightful and surprisingly relatable conversation about what it really takes to build a financially sound life abroad. Arielle specializes in cross-border financial and tax planning for U.S. expats, helping globally mobile families navigate residency rules, tax traps, retirement strategies, and international money decisions. Originally from upstate New York and now living outside Zurich with her husband and two children, she brings both technical expertise and over a decade of firsthand expat experience across Switzerland and Germany. In this episode, we cover: Arielle’s personal journey abroad — from childhood dreams of escaping to boarding school to navigating culture shock, loneliness, and multiple international moves The most common tax and financial mistakes U.S. expats make (and how to avoid them) Why your first year abroad is the most important for getting your taxes right What “walking a tightrope with handcuffs” has to do with U.S. tax law How to build your expat “financial team” — who you really need, and in what order What to know about visas, work rights, and tax residency before you move How expat life shifts when you have kids — from schools to safety to daily rhythms Why nothing is permanent in expat life — and why that’s a good thing Arielle also shares candid stories from her own journey: the early depressive fog of her first months in Switzerland, the unexpected career break that launched her into international tax, a pandemic-era move that forced a major life pivot, and the honest realities of raising kids in a culture that operates very differently than the U.S. If you want a grounded, clear, honest look at how to manage your money, taxes, and long-term plans abroad — without panic or guesswork — this episode is for you. Connect with Arielle Tucker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielletucker/ Passport to Wealth™ Podcast: passporttowealth.com EPISODE SPONSOR: MONEYCORP Don’t let bank fees eat into your move abroad. MoneyCorp offers competitive exchange rates and transparent, low-cost international transfers so more of your money gets where it needs to go. Opening an account is free and only takes minutes. Get started here   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    55 min
  3. HOW TO MOVE TO ITALY: Lessons from ViaMonde Founder Jennifer Sontag

    11/18/2025

    HOW TO MOVE TO ITALY: Lessons from ViaMonde Founder Jennifer Sontag

    In this episode of The Armchair Expat Podcast, Shannon sits down with Jennifer Sontag — serial entrepreneur, expat, and founder of ViaMonde, a bespoke agency that simplifies relocations to Spain and Italy. Jennifer’s story is one of bold reinvention, deep resilience, and the transformative power of starting over in a new country. Jennifer shares her journey from growing up in St. Louis to living in China, and eventually rebuilding her life on the island of Sicily. After a major personal and professional crossroads, she spent five years redefining everything — her career, her purpose, and ultimately her sense of home. That path led her to found ViaMonde, where she now guides others through the complex, emotional, and deeply personal process of moving abroad. Together, Shannon and Jennifer dive into: How Jennifer rebuilt her life from scratch and found clarity on a hillside in Sicily Her experience living in China and how it shaped her worldview The surprising challenges of obtaining Italian citizenship The cultural contrasts between Italy and Spain — and why one may suit you better than the other The unique pressures women face during midlife transitions Why asking for help during a relocation isn’t a weakness — it’s essential The emotional, logistical, and identity-level layers of moving abroad How ViaMonde was created from Jennifer’s own hard-won lessons Encouragement for anyone dreaming of a slower, more intentional life abroad Jennifer reminds listeners that reinvention is possible at any stage of life — and that building a new chapter overseas isn’t just a fantasy reserved for the brave few. It's a tangible, navigable path with the right support. Connect with Jennifer   EPISODE SPONSOR: MONEYCORP Don’t let bank fees eat into your move abroad. MoneyCorp offers competitive exchange rates and transparent, low-cost international transfers so more of your money gets where it needs to go. Opening an account is free and only takes minutes. Get started here   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    52 min
  4. What Happens When You Move Abroad Sight Unseen with Mary Alice

    11/11/2025

    What Happens When You Move Abroad Sight Unseen with Mary Alice

    Ever thought about packing up your life and moving to another country you’ve never even been to? That’s exactly what my guest today, Mary Alice Duff, did. She’s a fractional COO and business strategist living in Montpellier, France. After launching her own clothing brand and later shifting into business consulting, she now helps small businesses streamline operations and scale sustainably. She also runs a workshop called Solopreneurship for Global Mobility, helping others use self-employment as a pathway to living abroad. Born and raised just outside Philadelphia, Mary Alice had never set foot in France when she and her husband sold their house, packed up their daughter, their dog, and their cat — and boarded a one-way flight to the South of France. In this episode, she shares how a casual pandemic conversation turned into a full-blown relocation plan, what it was like navigating the French visa process, and how she built a brand-new life from scratch in a country where she didn’t speak the language. We talk about adjusting to French culture — from Sunday closures to the famous three kisses — finding community, raising a multilingual child, and learning to slow down after years of the American hustle. It’s an inspiring story about taking a leap, trusting yourself, and realizing that sometimes the best moves in life are the ones you can’t over-plan. In This Episode The spontaneous moment that started their move to France How they navigated the entrepreneur visa process as Americans Finding housing, schools, and community from abroad The surprising cultural differences (and how many kisses is too many) Adjusting from the U.S. hustle to a slower, more intentional pace What Mary Alice wishes she’d known before moving abroad Why she says it’s okay to just try it — even if it doesn’t work out   Connect with Mary Alice LinkedIn   EPISODE SPONSOR: Living abroad as an American? Your US taxes shouldn’t be a mystery. MyExpatPlanning helps Americans overseas organize their taxes, investments, and retirement goals with tools built for expat life. From understanding foreign income to optimizing for next year’s tax efficiency, plan smarter and stress less - all in one place. Take control of your financial future today at MyExpatPlanning- made by expats, for expats.   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    1h 3m
  5. DON’T BANK ON IT: The Smarter Way to Move Your Money Abroad with Kelly Cutchin of Moneycorp

    11/04/2025

    DON’T BANK ON IT: The Smarter Way to Move Your Money Abroad with Kelly Cutchin of Moneycorp

    In this episode of Armchair Expat, host Shannon Acton sits down with Kelly Cutchin, U.S. Country Manager for MoneyCorp, to demystify the world of currency exchange and international money transfers.   They explore why using your bank for overseas transactions could cost you thousands, how forward contracts can protect your home-buying budget, and why personalized service still matters in a digital world. Kelly also shares insights into current property purchase trends among Americans moving abroad, and what makes MoneyCorp’s hands-on approach so unique.   Key Takeaways MoneyCorp has been in the currency exchange industry since the late 1970s. Understanding the interbank rate is crucial to avoiding hidden bank markups. Clients can save thousands by using MoneyCorp instead of traditional banks. Every client is paired with a dedicated currency exchange specialist for one-on-one guidance. Setting up an account is quick, free, and requires no deposit. There’s a growing trend of Americans purchasing property abroad in countries like France, Portugal, and Spain. Always consult tax and immigration specialists before purchasing property overseas. Forward contracts let clients lock in exchange rates for future transactions. MoneyCorp offers multi-currency accounts for flexibility and convenience. Funds held with MoneyCorp are safeguarded and insured for peace of mind.   Connect with Kelly Cutchin of Moneycorp Email: kelly.cutchin@moneycorp.com Create your free Moneycorp account here   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    56 min
  6. What No One Tells You About Moving Abroad with Stacy Ennis

    10/28/2025

    What No One Tells You About Moving Abroad with Stacy Ennis

    Moving abroad sounds glamorous, but behind the Instagram reels and dream-home photos, there’s a very real side that often goes untold. In this episode, I’m joined by Stacy Ennis, bestselling author, book coach, and host of the Beyond Better podcast, who has lived in four countries outside the U.S.—the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Thailand, and now Portugal. Stacy gets brutally honest about international relocation: the visa headaches, unexpected cultural adjustments, health scares, and what it takes to build a thriving career and family life overseas. We also talk about how she built a location-independent business as a writer and book coach, the lessons learned from each move, and why it’s okay to change course when a country—or season of life—no longer fits. If you’ve ever dreamed about moving abroad but wondered whether you’re cut out for it, this conversation will give you both the inspiration and the reality check you need.   In This Episode: Stacy’s journey from Idaho to Portugal (and everywhere in between) The hardest parts of moving abroad no one talks about How to avoid rookie mistakes when relocating Raising kids in a different culture and education system Building a career you can take anywhere Why “it’s normal” to make big life changes Connect with Stacy: Website: stacyennis.com Instagram: @stacyennis Beyond Better Podcast: https://stacyennis.com/category/podcast/   Episode Sponsor: Moneycorp Moving abroad is exciting—but transferring your money internationally doesn’t have to be stressful. For over 40 years, Moneycorp has been helping expats, property buyers, and retirees move their money across borders with ease and at better rates than most banks. What makes them stand out is the human touch—you get a dedicated representative who’ll walk you through the process, help you time your transfers smartly, and save you money along the way. Opening an account is free, quick, and easy. Try it today: https://register.moneycorp.com/?rp=0021750309   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    1h 9m
  7. EXPAT TAXES MADE SIMPLE: Insights from MyExpatTaxes Founder Nathalie Goldstein

    10/07/2025

    EXPAT TAXES MADE SIMPLE: Insights from MyExpatTaxes Founder Nathalie Goldstein

    “Expat taxes made simple” — it might sound too good to be true, but that’s exactly what my guest today has set out to do. I’m joined by Nathalie Goldstein, founder and CEO of MyExpatTaxes, the leading tax software built specifically for Americans living abroad. Originally from California, Nathalie moved to Austria a decade ago, where her own frustrations with filing U.S. taxes as an expat inspired her to create a solution that now serves thousands of Americans worldwide. In this episode, we talk about: Why October 15th is the most important date on the expat tax calendar How to avoid double taxation with tax treaties and credits The must-know rules around FBAR and FATCA for foreign accounts Common mistakes expats make with record keeping and residency What to know if you’re freelancing abroad or planning to repatriate How MyExpatTaxes takes the fear and complexity out of filing Whether you’re just starting your move abroad or already living overseas, this conversation will help you understand your obligations, avoid costly mistakes, and feel more confident about your financial life as an expat.   CONNECT WITH NATHALIE https://www.myexpattaxes.com/ Taxes don’t stop when you move abroad—but they can get a whole lot easier. E-file by October 15th with MyExpatTaxes, and use MyExpatPlanning to make smarter tax moves year-round. START NOW   Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation.   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership   If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming. If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    58 min
  8. CROSS-BORDER MOVES: Building a Life (and Business) Abroad with Global Tax Advisor Nicolas Castillo

    09/23/2025

    CROSS-BORDER MOVES: Building a Life (and Business) Abroad with Global Tax Advisor Nicolas Castillo

    What happens when you trade Miami traffic for Madrid tapas—and still have to keep the IRS happy? In this episode of Armchair Expat, Shannon Acton interviews Nicolas Castillo, founder of Rook International CPAs and Advisors, about the realities of building a life and business abroad. Nicolas shares his personal journey from Miami to Madrid, opening up about the challenges of adjusting to a new culture, the importance of community, and the very real complexities of cross-border tax planning. As a global tax advisor, Nicolas sheds light on what Americans often get wrong about filing from overseas, the myths around expat taxes, and why countries like France and Italy can be surprisingly friendly to entrepreneurs and retirees. Whether you’re considering a move abroad, already living overseas, or just curious about how cross-border life works, this conversation blends personal experience with practical, must-know advice. Nicolas moved to Spain three and a half years ago with his wife, choosing Madrid for its culture, language, and community feel. He contrasts the walkable lifestyle of Spain with the car-centered culture of Miami, and shares how building community abroad takes courage but pays off. From a professional perspective, Nicolas emphasizes that many Americans mistakenly believe they don’t need to file taxes once they leave the U.S.—a misconception that can lead to severe penalties. He explains citizenship-based taxation, highlights tax-friendly options in France and Italy, and stresses the importance of consulting a cross-border advisor before relocating. CONNECT WITH NICOLAS LinkedIn Website   DISCLAIMER The information shared in this episode is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice, and should not be relied upon as such. Everyone’s circumstances are unique—listeners are encouraged to seek professional guidance from a qualified advisor before making decisions about taxes, finances, or relocation.   ABOUT ARMCHAIR EXPAT Armchair Expat is hosted by Shannon Acton, founder and Chief Bargain Hunter of Bargain Homes Abroad Follow on Instagram  @bargainhomesabroad Visit our Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co Subscribe to our E-Mail Digest: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/subscribe VIP Access: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/membership If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps us reach more future expats and keep these stories coming.   ENTER THE REVIEW CONTEST: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/reviews   If you're interested in sponsoring or partnering with Armchair Expat, please reach out to Shannon at the following email: info AT bargain-homes DOT com

    51 min
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5
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About

What really happens when you leave everything familiar behind and start over in a new country?
 Armchair Expat is a podcast about moving abroad, living overseas, and building a life you love on your own terms. Hosted by Shannon Acton of Bargain Homes Abroad, each episode features real stories from people who have relocated internationally—whether for work, retirement, lifestyle, or love. Guests include everyday expats, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs who share honest insights, practical advice, and personal reflections on what it really takes to move abroad and thrive. But this show isn’t just about logistics—it’s about the inner journey, too. From identity shifts and culture shock to healing, intuition, and transformation, Armchair Expat explores how living abroad can change you in ways you never expected. If you’re dreaming of moving to another country or curious about expat life, this podcast will inspire, inform, and guide your journey—no passport required. Website: https://www.bargainhomesabroad.co/armchair-expat Contact Us: Info@Bargain-Homes.com

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